Among the resumes of President-elect Donald Trump’s picks for key Pentagon posts, aspiring Air Force Secretary Troy Meink’s stands out. Meink has a robust background in acquisition and technology development within the Defense Department, offering a government experience differentiating him from Trump’s other Department of Defense (DOD) nominees. His specialization in space could significantly alter the traditional priorities of a service typically dominated by Air Force interests.
Todd Harrison, a senior defense policy fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, stated that selecting a space expert like Meink as Air Force Secretary is “consequential,” indicating a high priority for space initiatives under the Trump administration. Harrison noted, “He is solidly from a space background, unlike any other secretary of the Air Force,” suggesting that this appointment signals a serious commitment to enhancing the Space Force.
Currently, Meink serves as the deputy director of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), where he oversees the daily operations of the spy agency that provides space-based intelligence to the military. Throughout his career, he has held several positions in the Air Force space community, including roles at the Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center and the office of the Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force for space.
If confirmed, Meink will lead both the Air Force and the Space Force during a critical time when strategic decisions regarding the future structure and capabilities of both are paramount. For the Air Force, this includes developing a next-generation fighter fleet, modernizing the nuclear triad, and increasing the integration of autonomous and uncrewed aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Space Force, established during the first Trump administration five years ago, aims to significantly increase its budget in response to escalating threats and new mission demands. The impending role of the next Air Force Secretary will involve resource allocation between the two services. Given that Meink has reported expertise in space, he may facilitate a shift in budget focus toward the Space Force, which has a projected budget of $30 billion for fiscal 2025 compared to the Air Force’s $188 billion request.
Harrison pointed out that this selection might raise concerns among airpower advocates due to the stagnant budget environment. He emphasized that an increase in Space Force funding could come at the cost of reductions in the Air Force’s budget. Harrison also mentioned that Meink will need to navigate decisions regarding mission transitions, such as transferring target indication tasks from air-based systems to space sensors and satellites.
During his time at the NRO, Meink contributed to successful launches of over 100 ISR satellites as part of a proliferated constellation in low Earth orbit and enhanced partnerships with commercial companies for satellite imagery and services. Kari Bingen, director of the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, acknowledged Meink’s expertise in advancing data processing and analytic capabilities, which will benefit both the Air Force and Space Force.
Bingen indicated that Meink approaches issues with a foundation in technical facts and analysis, allowing for thoughtful strategies regardless of whether they pertain to space or air. Furthermore, Meink’s experience at the NRO is expected to inform his understanding of the distinct roles of the Space Force and the intelligence community, an area of ongoing tension, especially as the Space Force expands its mission set.
Doug Loverro, a former Pentagon space policy official, expressed confidence that Meink’s dual knowledge could facilitate smoother discussions regarding collaboration between the two entities, improving operational coherence.
Courtney Albon, the author of the article, is a reporter focused on space and emerging technology at C4ISRNET, with experience covering the U.S. military since 2012, particularly the Air Force and Space Force.